Ex-North Central, Purdue standout Terone Johnson to play in Greece

Purdue guard Terone Johnson brings the ball up court against Butler during the first half, Saturday, December 14, 2013, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.(Photo: Brent Drinkut/The Star)Buy Photo

WEST LAFAYETTE – Having never even tried a gyro, Terone Johnson isn't sure what to expect from Greek culture.

The two-time Purdue men's basketball MVP leaves Aug. 24 to begin his professional career with KAO Dramas of the first-tier Greek Basket League. Johnson said he believes 72 games of Big Ten Conference play over the past four years prepared him for anything he might see on the court.

"I've been told that a lot," said Johnson, a 6-4, 198-pound guard. "Obviously the lifestyle over there is pretty different. Playing professionally is kind of different, just the style of play. The physicality of the Big Ten, how organized we play and things like that, really prepares you for the professional level."

KAO Dramas announced the one-year contract agreement today. The Green Devils, who play in a 1,700-seat arena, finished sixth in the 14-team league last season. KAO Dramas signed another American combo guard last week — Notre Dame's Eric Atkins.

Johnson averaged 12 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists as a senior. The North Central standout graduated with 1,318 points — ranking 25th in program history — as well as ranking fourth in games played (134), 19th in assists (299) and 15th in 3-pointers made (120).

Johnson said KAO Dramas and the Greek Basket League received a solid recommendation from former Boilermaker Keaton Grant, who played for league member Apollon Patras in 2012-13.

Johnson said his agent, Dave Gasman of Overtime Sports, also spoke with teams in Italy, Belgium and Germany. Johnson believes playing in the well-regarded Greek Basket League could lead to better opportunities in future years.

"They said they watched me play last year and liked the way I can score the ball and also play as a team player," said Johnson, whose compensation includes housing, a car and three meals a day provided by the team. "It's going to be a real team environment as far as the players. They want to get us together and get us more closeness and togetherness, especially on the floor, and just be a competitor."